York County Board approves new zoning amendments for data center regulations

York County's Board of Supervisors made significant strides in zoning regulations during their June 17, 2025, meeting, particularly concerning data centers and land use amendments. The board unanimously approved two key motions that will shape the future of local development.

The first motion involved the adoption of proposed ordinance number 25-14, which amends proffered conditions for a 1.4-acre site at 111 Faulkner Road. This approval is expected to facilitate future development in the area, enhancing local infrastructure and potentially boosting economic activity.

In a second motion, the board adopted resolution R 25-1, which modifies conditions of a previously approved special use permit for recreational vehicle sales at 6903 and 6909 George Washington Memorial Highway. This resolution extends the deadline for establishing the sales display, allowing the business more time to comply with local regulations.

A major focus of the meeting was the proposed amendments to the York County zoning ordinance concerning data centers. These amendments introduce new definitions and performance standards aimed at regulating energy and water usage, noise generation, and architectural standards for data centers. The Planning Commission had previously recommended these changes, which were designed to address community concerns about the environmental impact and infrastructure demands of such facilities.

Key provisions require data center developers to demonstrate sufficient utility capacity from electric and water providers before approval. This measure aims to prevent potential strain on local resources as data centers expand. Additionally, the board discussed limiting on-site generator testing to minimize noise disturbances, ultimately agreeing to a revised proposal that restricts testing to one hour per week.

The board's proactive approach in regulating data centers reflects a commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship and community well-being. As these amendments move forward, they are expected to provide a framework that supports responsible development while safeguarding local interests.